Tudor Grange Academy Redditch underwent an inspection on 18 and 19 January 2022, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good across various categories including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision. This marked a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement.
Pupils express enjoyment in attending the school and feel safe within its environment. The school employs a ‘small college’ system that fosters a sense of belonging among students, who report strong relationships with their teachers. The leadership team prioritizes the well-being of students, ensuring that they have access to supportive adults for any concerns. Instances of bullying are addressed effectively by staff, contributing to a positive school culture.
The leadership team has ambitious goals for the school and the community it serves. They have developed a curriculum that offers a variety of experiences aimed at supporting both academic and personal growth. Recent activities include educational trips to Bletchley Park and participation in theatre productions. The school provides tailored support for students who require additional assistance, such as those in the ‘Treetops’ provision, which has shown positive outcomes for its participants.
In the classroom, pupils generally exhibit good behaviour and a willingness to learn. The school promotes the ‘Tudor Grange Way,’ which encourages positive conduct among students. When behavioural issues arise, leaders focus on understanding and addressing the root causes to prevent recurrence. Over recent years, there has been a notable improvement in pupil behaviour.
The headteacher and senior leadership team have effectively navigated challenges and established strong connections with local middle schools, facilitating a smoother transition for pupils. Staff members report high levels of job satisfaction and pride in their work at the school. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured in most subjects, particularly in mathematics, where knowledge is sequenced effectively. However, some subjects lack detailed identification of essential knowledge, which can hinder teachers' ability to deliver lessons effectively.
Assessment practices vary across subjects, with some teachers successfully identifying gaps in pupils' knowledge, particularly in the sixth form. However, in certain areas, teachers do not consistently check for understanding, leading to gaps in knowledge that impede progress. The provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is effective, with staff making appropriate adaptations to support these students.
While leaders have plans to assist pupils struggling with reading, these initiatives are still in the early stages, resulting in some pupils not achieving the necessary reading proficiency to engage with classroom materials effectively. Most lessons are conducted with minimal disruption, and when issues arise, teachers manage them effectively, preserving learning time.
The school fosters an inclusive culture that celebrates diversity, with initiatives such as an LGBTQ+ group that advocates for student rights. Pupils receive guidance on career pathways and have opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities, enhancing their overall educational experience. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff trained to recognize and respond to risks effectively, ensuring a safe environment for all students.
Overall, Tudor Grange Academy Redditch demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its students, with clear areas for further development identified in the inspection report.
